Ritchie Wade mills

Ritchie Wade Mills, 71, of Weirton, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and forever friend to many arrived at his final destination as he entered into the presence of The Most High God. He heard, "Well done, good and faithful servant" from the lips of his Savior, Jesus Christ on Thursday morning, June 13, 2024, at his home.
Rich was born March 6, 1953, one of four children born to Rev. Wallace J. and Julia L. Boyce Mills. His parents and oldest sister, Betty Ruth precede him in death.
He attended Mount Vernon Nazarene College and continued his education at West Liberty State College, studying Elementary Education and Ministry of Music, before embarking on a remarkable, fulfilling 42-year career at Weirton Steel. At the mill Rich worked in the Tin Mill Fuel Department as a crew chief. Rich will be remembered and admired by his co-workers as a lifelong friend for years to come. He led by example and respected every individual.
On July 26, 1973, Rich married his Sweetheart, Thelma. Together, they embraced a beautiful life and were blessed beyond measure with two sons, a daughter, eight grandchildren, and a great-grandson, Alyjah (Pop's favorite baby ever). The family cherished Pop's heart of gold and even-tempered personality. He was always available to offer sound advice, but only when asked. He found immeasurable joy in hunting at the "Old Cabin" in Wetzel County, fishing, and camping with his family. Rich's passion for music filled every aspect of their lives as he shared his accomplished talent on the piano and guitar with his love for worship and praise music. Rich loved collecting Lionel trains and antique glass. Rich had a deep interest in time pieces of all ages, collecting and working on antique clocks and pocket watches. This hobby filled his time with great accomplishment.
Rich's life testament of compassion and dedication was his time and talents spent serving others. In addition to several Work and Witness mission trips, he thrived at hosting the Appalachia Reach Out (ARO) Ministry in Nicholas County, WV. This calling on his life was one of his greatest opportunities to grow the Kingdom, and truly fed his soul. His commitment to his community and deep spiritual connection extended to his faithful membership at the Weirton First Church of the Nazarene.
Rich's legacy of love, service, and dedication will be forever cherished by all those whose lives have been enriched because he loved them: his beloved wife, Thelma; his two sons, Adam W. Mills (Michalene) and Andrew J. Mills (Theresa Hamblen); his daughter, Olivia R. Powell (Wendel); his brother, Nelson Mills (Sherry); his sister, Brenda Luedke; his three brother in laws, Wayne White, Michael White (Lisa), Charlie White (Robin); his eight grandchildren, Morgan Mills (Austin Jacobs), Regan Hunter, Baylei Mills, Elijah Powell, Madison Mills, Karalyne Hunter, Aiden Mills, and Danica Mills, several nieces and nephews and a multitude of friends.
Rich's family will receive family and friends on Monday from 4 PM until the time of his Celebration of Life Service at 6 PM at the Weirton First Church of the Nazarene 475 Colliers Way Weirton, WV. His lifelong friend and forever Best Man, Rev. Larry Barkley, will preside over the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Appalachia Reach Out, 2570 Rockcastle Road, Inez, KY 41224, or online at appalachiareachout.com.
Share tributes and memories with his family at www.grecohertnick.com